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Beaumont provides funding update on Stewart Park, Penn Avenue grade separation and Potrero interchange; gaps remain

Beaumont City Council · November 5, 2025

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Summary

Staff briefed council on delays and funding gaps for Stewart Park, Penn Avenue grade separation, and Potrero Interchange Phase II, and asked for direction on CIP amendments.

Beaumont — City staff updated the City Council on three major capital projects on Nov. 4 and asked for direction about funding-source options to address shortfalls.

Stewart Park revitalization: Staff said Phase 1 is paused to protect eligibility for a $3.1 million federal grant tied to Phase 2. Phase‑2’s estimated budget is $6.2 million; current funding estimates total about $5.6 million (including $3.1M local/general‑fund and $2.5M in grants), leaving potential gaps to be covered after bids are received. Staff reported the State Office of Grants and Local Services (referred to in the presentation) will submit materials to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) for a 30‑day review; if SHPO requests supplements, the review may restart the 30‑day clock and could delay resumption of Phase 1 into early 2026.

Pennsylvania Avenue grade separation: Presenters said the full project cost is in the $78–86 million range. The city was selected for a $50.4 million California Transportation Commission (TCEP) award and has secured roughly $8 million in local/regional match; staff reported a cooperative agreement obligation requiring about $9.468 million (design/right‑of‑way) for RCTC and noted a remaining construction funding shortfall currently estimated at $15–22 million. Several grant reprogramming and interagency options were discussed; staff will return Nov. 18 with CIP‑amendment recommendations.

Potrero Interchange Phase 2: Bids were received and characterized as favorable; the low bidder came in around $48 million against a programmed $58 million, and staff believe current programming is sufficient for award subject to RCTC negotiation. Environmental clearance is complete and construction is anticipated in 2026. Staff emphasized these schedules are contingent on grant programming and cooperative agreements.

Council directed staff to prepare CIP amendment options and to pursue reprogramming of lower‑priority funds, while keeping contingency and reserve protections in mind. Staff will return Nov. 18 with recommended funding-source actions for council consideration.